Biography

Christian is one of the younger generation of organists who is not only interested in playing, but also in the intricate restoration side of these fine historic instruments. Along with his brother, Christopher, a Christie organ is being completely renovated.
He was taken to the Ballroom at Blackpool Tower from early infancy, and from around the age of 3 he started 'playing' a keyboard. He then progressed to an electronic organ and eventually used a vintage Compton 357 Melotone. He first sat at the console of a theatre organ in January 1999 (the WurliTzer 3/8 of Burton Town Hall in fact) and has since played a varied selection of British and American theatre organs, most notably the 74+ rank WurliTzer at the OrganStop Pizza Parlour in Phoenix Arizona, and also the 80 rank WurliTzer of the amazing Sanfillippo residence in Chicago, Illinois. During 2001, Christian was made assistant organist at the Pipes In The Peaks Compton. He can be seen many times in concert at this particular venue.

At the Burton Town Hall WurliTzer

At the OrganStop 4/74 WurliTzer

 
Christian is completely self taught, and has spent many, many hours listening, watching and studying recordings of the masters of the instrument past and present. He likes to present a wide selection of music for all tastes and ages, and his many styles of interpretation are his own arrangments. He found influences from the likes of American artistes such as Lyn Larsen and Ron Rhode, to the British counterparts in particular the late Vic Hammett, and of course the ever popular Phil Kelsall.

 

With Mum, Dad and brother Christopher at my Graduation Ceremony.

 Christian is a Batchelor of Science, having graduated from Staffordshire University, and is employed in a non-music related position. His other interests are Steam and Traction Engines, Classic Cars, and F1 Motor Racing. He also likes listening to many types of music, especially Katie Melua, Shania Twain, and the Mavericks.